Proactiv Solution Refining Mask

Contents: 70g / 2.5oz

Local of Purchase: Watsons

Price: HK$699.00 (This was the price for the PA solution kit that I got, which had 4 items)

 

According to Proactiv webpage:

 

Fans call it their 'secret weapon'. Designed to soothe skin as well as help keep new breakouts from getting started.

• Works to clear and help prevent blemishes.
• Penetrates pores for a deep clean.
• Enriched with Omega-6 to help keep skin balanced and toned.
• Controls oil without drying your skin .

How to use it

• Use 2-3 times per week
• For best results, start with Cleanse - Step 1 to remove dirt, oil and impurities and leave your skin with a clean slate
• Apply to dampened skin and leave on for 15minutes
• Rinse thoroughly with warm water
• For best results, follow with Tone - Step 2 and Repair - Step 3

Tip: Just apply and leave on overnight for stubborn pimples

 

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Glycereth-26, Sulfur, Omega-6, Linoleic Acid, Cetearyl Alcohol, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Ceteareth-20, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Omega -3, Linolenic Acid, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus Extract, Geranium Maculatum Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Tocopherol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Butylene Glycol, Hydrated Silica, Ethoxydiglycol, Fragrance (Parfum), Amyl Cinnamal, Benzyl Alcohol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Ethylparaben, Methylparaben, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Kaolin (CI 77004), Zinc Oxide (CI 77947).

 

My Opinion:

Every now and then my skin will break out really badly, and several years ago when Proactiv was launched in HK, I got the PA solution kit to try out.

 

This kit came with a cleanser, toner, moisturizer and this mask. I've never reviewed this kit before because I've only used it twice and end up gaving it away. The whole set together was just toooooo drying for my skin, I was flaking all over.

 

The only item from the kit that I've kept was the Refining mask, this is actually a sulfur mask which really helps in controlling oil, but please bear in mind that it smells awful.

 

Although I've really liked this mask, I don't think I'll be repurchasing, because I was told that acnefree does have a sulfur mask that works in exactly the same way but is a lot cheaper. I think that's what I'm going to try next. 

Dr .G Gowoonsesang Aroma A1 Skin Lotion

Contents: 50ml
Price: HK$104
Local of Purchase: Sasa

According to the package:

 

Give your skin the benefit of the most comprehensive skin care therapies currently available.

 

Gowoonsesang is the no. 1 cosmeceutical brand in Korea which established by 8 medical doctores, 33 dermatologists, 80 nurses and 100 medical estheticians with abundant clinical experiences of treating over 400,000 patients since 1998.

 

Containing hydrophilic and lipophilic ingredients recognized for their ability to support you, each of these unique formulations works on a cellular level to help face skin achieve and mantain a clearer, healthier look.

 

Discover a program of complete care for the face based on innovative research and proven science.

 

Wet cotton swab or pad with small amount .

Apply only on the troubled spot and tap for penetration.

The product can cause irritation on sensitive skin when excess amount is used. Avoid sensitive eye area.

 

Ingredients: Alcohol, Melaleuca Alternifollia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Salicylic Acid, Triclosan, Sodium Citrate, Benzophenone-3, CI 19140, CI42090

 

My Opinion:

 

I've always have problems with clogged pores, and in order to combat this issue I have to be very diligent with my skin care regime. I need a deep cleanse mask at least twice a week and sometimes three times, but what's needed is not always what you are getting, and honestly I'm lucky if I have the time to have a deep cleanse mask once a week....

 

I've always knew that BHA penetrates into the skin and helps unclogged pores, but I never came across any BHA products locally, but that is because I never knew that salicylic acid is another name for BHA.

 

Anyway, I got this and have been using it as a toner once a day all over my face, this stuffs smells awfull and it stings like hell, but it works.

 

It has cleared out my skin and it has never worked this good, I've finished my bottle in 3 weeks and already bough a new one.

 

Recently I've been reading that triclosan is actually bad for you so I've been restricting myself to only using it once a week, and I'm already looking for other BHA products without Triclosan.

Mario Badescu Drying Cream

Contents: 0.5oz

Price: HK$129.00

Local of Purchase: AntonG

 

According to Mario Badescu's webpage:

 

benefits:

Acne cream that conceals! Drying Cream is an effective treatment to dry up small under the surface bumps and pimples. Just a few dabs smoothed on the erupted areas prevent pimples from getting larger and spreading out of control. Aloe rich cream conceals and heals erupted pimples. How to Use: Apply sparingly on pimples by dabbing with fingertip until cream blends into the skin. Best when applied after moisturizer, before make-up.

Ingredients: Deionized Water (Aqua), Zinc Oxide,Aloe (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice) Gel,Cetyl Alcohol,Lemon (Citrus Medica Limonum) Extract, Colloidal Sulfur,Ervol,Octyl Palmitate,Ichthammol,Polysorbate 80, Titanium Dioxide,Polyglycerylmethacrylate (and) Propylene Glycol   My Opinion:   Recently I've been breaking out more than usual, so the hunt for acne related stuffs has started again.   Mario Badescu Drying Lotion is a staple item in my bathroom cabinet, and I can't do without it. I always repurchase when I'm about to run out, and while I was restocking, I've picked up the Drying Cream as well.   While the lotion is amazing, it's gunky and pinkish, so I can only use it at home. As a result, I've needed something that I can wear in the morning. The sales lady told me the cream serves the same purpose and since it is translucent I can wear it in the morning.   I've been using this for nearly a month, and have concluded that these 2 products serves different purposes, while the drying lotion will dry up the acne over night or significantly reduce the lifespan  of an acne. (is that an appropriate description for an acne??? never mind, as long as you got what I mean), the drying cream works more like a prevention.   I've been dotting the drying cream around the center of my face and chin, where the pores are more prominent and prone to acne, and since then my face has started to clear up. I haven't seen any new break outs and I have my fingers crossed. This product doesn't feel dry, it actually feels abit heavy, but I've noticed that I've been oozing less oil. I think this product is actually balancing oil secretion and keeping my pores unclogged.

Clean and Clear Persa-Gel 10, Maximum Strengh

Contents: 1 oz / 28g

Price: US6.49

Local of Purchase: Drugstore.com

According to drugstore.com

Here's a wonderfully effective acne preparation that requires no prescription: The secret is a 10-percent solution of benzoyl peroxide in a clear gel formula that leaves you free of tell-tale white splotches common to so many skin-treatment creams. You start with once-a-day topical applications, then move up to thrice-daily, if needed.

This acne medication contains maximum strength benzoyl peroxide.  The micronized benzoyl peroxide formula goes to work immediately, releasing the medicine deep into the pores where pimples begin.  It's the same prescription formula prescribed by doctors and dermatologists for over ten years, available without a prescription.

Ingredients: Carbomer, Disodium EDTA, Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, Laureth 4, Sodium Hydroxide, Water

My Opinion:

Recently my skin has been behaving badly, and I've been breaking out in the most unusual places, like the center of my cheeks which has never happened before.

Anyway, I heard about this product on youtube, and every once in a while someone would mention it, so I've ordered it online but never got around using it.

With my recent breakouts, this was really a life saver, it actually stopped the swelling overnight, and it was gone in 3 days. I must say that this stuffs is potent, and it really dries out the skin around the acne, so only use it where is needed.

Clean and Clear Advantage popped pimple relief drying paste

Contents: 0.5 og / 14g
Price: US$5.59
Local of Purchase: drugstore.com

According to drugstore's webpage:

Overnight

Salicylic Acid Acne Medication

Designed to:

• Dry Up Acne Pimples
• Allow Skin to Heal
• Change Color to Signal it's Working

Although dermatologists do not recommend intentionally popping pimples (and you know it's not the best thing for your skin), they can inevitably end up getting popped. The Clean & Clear® Advantage® Popped Pimple Relief™ drying paste is specially formulated to target the unpleasant appearance of acne blemishes, including popped pimples. The drying paste goes on blue then turns white so you know it's dry and starting to work.

Active Ingredients: Salicylic Acid (0.5%, Acne Medication [Lotion])

Inactive Ingredients: Water, Hydrated Silica, C12 15 Alkyl Benzoate, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Isoceteth 20, PEG 6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Titanium Dioxide, Phenoxyethanol, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Citrate, Dimethicone Propyl PG Betaine, Fragrance, Menthyl Lactate, Cocamidopropyl PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, C12 15 Alkyl Lactate, Citric Acid, Benzalkonium Chloride, Blue 1 Lake (CI 42090)

My Opinion:

My current favorite acne product, it works best on popped acne,  I'd usually place a thick layer overnight, and in the next morning it'll dry out the acne and all the swelling and redness would be gone.

Garnier Pure Active Anti-Imperfections Cooling Roll-On

Contents: 15ml
Price: HK$99.00
Local of Purchase: Watsons

 

 

According to the package:

 

Purifying salicylic acid + HerbalRepair

• dries out imperfections
• visibly fades marks

Anti-Imperfections Cooling Roll-On

 

Anti-imperfections action:

Concentrated in Purifying Salicylic acid, its fresh non greasy formula quickly dries out imperfections instantly

 

Anti-marks fading action:

Enriched with HerbaRepair, known for its regenerating and repairing properties, it heps to improve skin, minimise redness and fade out marks.

 

Dermatologically tested on Asian acne-prone skin.

 

Visible efficacy:

In 5 hours, redness is reduced.

In 2 days, imperctions and marks are visibly reduced

 

Usage: Apply directly onto and around imperfections and their marks as soon as they appear. Continued aplications until they have cleared. Avoid eye area

 

Ingredients: Aqua/Water, Alcohol Denat., Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Salicylic Acide, Acrylates/C10-30, Alkylacrylate Crosspolymer, Camphor, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Menthol Sodium Hydroxide, Vaccinium Myrtillus Extract/ Vaccinium Myrtill Us Fruit Extract, Zinc Glucconate, Parfum/Fragrance (F.I.K.B34960/1)

 

My Opinion:

This is an Asia exclusive product for acnes, and I think this is only good for the occasional break outs, not something for those hard to tackle acnes.

 

From my experience this product does work in drying out your acnes without drying out your skin, but this stuffs works really slow, I had this spot on my chin for nearly a week and it has finally started to fade and I've been religiously using this stuff every day and night after cleansing my skin.

 

Overall, this is a really mild product for acne that is convenient to have it at home, but it won't do miracles.

Ion Beauty Machine

I think this is one of the first beauty gadgets that I've got, and since then my collection has been growing, but most of them were left in my beauty graveyard while this one still gets my attention, at least when I start to break out.

 

Honestly I do not remember where I got this, or how much it was, but since ion beauty gadgets are so popular now you could get one everywhere.

 

My usual routine to tackle any breakouts:

1. Deep cleanse my skin, either with a mask or Hitachi Face Crie;
2. Apply some Aloe Pura Organic Aloe Vera Gel with Tea Tree;
3. Start rolling the Ion Beauty Machine all over my face;
4. Whenever it starts to tuck, spray some water (I'm using evian, but any water will do)

The whole procedure (excluding the deep cleanse) should take about 5 minutes, this process would take away any redness, and it'll speed up the healing process of any breakouts.

 

 

Neostrata Gel Plus

 

Contents: 3.4 fl oz / 100ml
Price: HK$260.00
Local of Purchase: leaf1000.com

According to Neostrata's webpage:

Experienced AHA users with oily skin use this exfoliating gel to relieve dryness while evening skin texture and tone.

• 15% Glycolic Acid
• Lightweight exfoliating gel
• Softens and smoothes dry skin
• Improves skin texture and tone on oily, acne-prone skin
• Ideal for experienced AHA users with non-sensitive skin

Product Details:

This extra strength formulation is ideal for experienced users of Glycolic Acid and those who prefer a light, non-greasy and fast-absorbing gel suitable for oily, acne prone skin or hot, humid climates. Glycolic Acid helps correct the visible signs of photoaging such as enlarged pores, uneven texture and pigment, and stimulates collagen synthesis for firmer, younger looking skin. As a highly effective exfoliant, this formula can also be used to help relieve ingrown hairs associated with pseudofolliculitis barbae. Oil-free and Fragrance-free. Formulated with 15% Glycolic Acid.

Directions:

Apply to face and other desired areas once daily for two weeks and twice daily thereafter, following cleansing, as tolerated. Daily use of a sunscreen with this product is recommended

Ingredients:

Water (Aqua), Alcohol Denat., Glycolic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Ammonium Hydroxide, Polyquaternium-10, Tetrasodium EDTA.

My Opinion:

For the last 6 months my skin has never been clear, and since I'm a moron who can't resist picking my skin, I'm left with marks all over my face. The beauty of this product is it's ability to fade those "new" acne marks really fast, please note that I've put an emphasis on the word new because I found that it doesn't work that well on old marks.

What I usually do is to spread a thin layer on my acne marks every night and those areas will usually start peeling and the pigmentation will be gone in a few weeks.

Please note that by applying this product on open wounds (recently picked acne that hasn't healed yet) will burn like hell, apply at your own risk.

Another warning for new AHA users, don't start by using this on a daily basis, it will burn your skin, I've started by using this product once every week, your skin has to build it's tolerance towards this product.

Once your skin has build it's tolerance towards this product, you'll love it because it will speed up the clearing process of your acnes, and since you only need a tiny bit of product for each application, one bottle will virtually lasts forever. I had my bottle since 2008 and is still working.

Aloe Pura Organic Aloe Vera Gel with Tea Tree

Contents: 200ml
Price: HKD200.00
Local of Purchase: New Yaohan

According to Aloe Pura's webpage:

Our Aloe Pura Aloe Vera Gel with Tea Tree Oil cleanses, softens and helps restore dry and damaged skin, with the added benefit of the antiseptic properties from organic Tea Tree Oil.

It can be applied to stretch marks, scars, dry, chapped skin, sun burn, skin irritations and minor burns.

 

Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Organic), Polysorbate 20, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Limonene.

 

My Opinion:

 

I always have a bottle of aloe vera gel with me, and whenever my skin starts acting up this is the only thing that I use. I've tried the original formula as well, but personally I prefer the one with Tea Tree Oil, especially for breakouts, it seems to heal up faster after using it.

 

If you have just started using this product you might noticed a burning sensation, but that's normal and that feeling will go away once your skin got used to it, please note that you shouldn't apply this around your eye area.

Bling Bling Mini Acne Therapy Device

Local of Purchase: Mannings
Price: HK$465

According to Clariancy's webpage:

Introducing Bling Bling Mini.

Effectively clears 90% of newly formed acne within 24 hours.

The Science behind Bling Bling Mini.

How does it work?

The bacteria known as Propionibacterium acnes (P.acnes) is largely responsible for acne development. It is both light and heat sensitive.

Bio Ceramic Far-infrared to induce controlled heat shock response.

The heat shock response occurs in virtually all organisms, including P. acnes. This response occurs when a heat stress is imposed on the bacteria. Heat shock proteins are induced in large quantities during this response and these proteins act by breaking down components of P.acnes leading to eradication of the bacteria and clearing of acne.

420nm Blue Light

P.acnes is known to naturally produce high amounts of intracellular porphyrins. These porphyrins are photosensitive. When porphyrins absorb light of certain wavelengths, in particular blue light, free radical damage is produced, and this in turn destroys the bacteria.

Bling Bling Mini works by utilising both bio ceramic far-infrared and 420nm blue light to bring about destruction of P.acnes. The area treated is gently heated to 46.5 to 49.5 degrees celsius over 2 and a half minutes. Simultaneously the treatment tip emits blue light over the treatment area. The combination of these two technologies lead to effective clearing of acne, while at the same time, leaving the surrounding skin intact.

Treatment with the Bling Bling Mini is safe and painless.

Newly formed acne is most suitable for this treatment. Efficacy has been observed for older mild to moderate acne but may require multiple applications and a longer duration. Severe cases of acne will require medical consultation.

Features

Bling Bling Mini has been designed with the end user in mind. The ergonomic and innovative design makes it an attractive and portable acne device. Carry it wherever you go. And unlike other devices, the Bling Bling Mini is economical. There are no consumables. There is no need for replacement tips or batteries. It has a semi-permanent tip which does not require replacements and can be charged using a USB cable. It also has a quick charging time of 45 minutes.

How do you use it?

90% treatment effect within 24 hours using 2-3 applications

No side effects. Unlike medications, it is safe to use.

Minimise scars during acne treatment.

Small, compact and easy to carry around.

Semi- permanent and econmical. No replacement tips and batteries necessary.

Quick charging time of 45 mins. Comes with both power adaptor and USB cable.

Strong treatment effect with new Bio-Ceramic Far Infrared Technology.

Is the Bling Bling Mini safe to use?

Yes. The Bling Bling Mini has been approved by the Korean Food and Drug Association

(KFDA) and the device conforms with the CE European Directive for medical devices.

How do you use it?

It is very simple to use.

Remove the cover from the Bling Bling Mini.

Press the switch to turn on the device.

Wait 1 to 1.5 minutes and a “bling bling sound will appear”

Upon hearing this, place the treatment tip to the area to be treated and press the switch again.

Hold the device onto your skin for 2.5 minutes. You should hear a sound every 10 seconds.

Once 2.5 minutes have passed, the device will sound “bling bling” again.

To switch off the device at the stage, press and hold the switch for 2-3 seconds.

To treat another area, press the switch once and then place it on another area.

What comes in the box?

Bling Bling Mini Device

Instruction Manual

USB Cable

Is there any warranty?

All Bling Bling Mini products comes with a 1 year limited warranty.

My Opinion:

I think this little gadget really does get rid of your acnes really fast, especially those acnes without a head, it will get rid of the swelling and redness overnight.

I got this way back in 2010, and have used it for several months, but then I've started to notice that I keep on breaking out in exactly the same spot. I'm starting to suspect that the break out might be related to this gadget, and although I've stopped using it, even after 2 years I still keep on breaking out in exactly the same spot where the gadget has been applied, and it is always the cystic type that will stay on forever. Right now I have this ginormous acne on my chin, and it has been there for nearly 3 months......

Update 1 October 2013:

I've stopped using this gadget because I'm fairly sure that this is the reason why I keep on breaking out at the exact same spot. Although after using it the acne will shrink, it's only temporary, and once you stop using it it'll come back again.

Nexcare Acne Dressing (Beware: Gross picture ahead)

Contents, Price and Local of Purchase: Comes in several box sizes

18pcs/ box (HKD29.50 - Bonjour):
0.8cm x 12pcs
1.2cm x 6pcs

36pcs/ box (HKD39.90 - Watsons):
0.8cm x 24pcs
1.2cm x 12pcs

15pcs/box (HKD42.00 - Bonjour):
1.5cm x 15pcs


According to 3M's webpage:

• Absorb secretion, protect from dirt and contaminants, and promotes healing of acne.
• No medication dressing reduces the chances of skin allergy or dried
• Reduce infection by reducing the contacts of hands or other contaminants

Directions:

1. Clean and dry the skin and hands thoroughly.
2. Remove the film at the back of an acne dressing and cover it on the acne. Fix it tightly by pressing on the rim.
3. Replace when acne dressing turns white (indicating full absorption of secretion).
4. Store unused acne dressing in a cool, dry place.
5. The acne dressing should be applied before wearing make-up.

My opinion:

If I have to name only one product as my favorite for 2011, it would be this acne dressing. This is a gel patch that will absorb all the pus from your acnes, and it will speed up the healing process.

I always have the tendency in breaking out on the same spot, but since I have started using this product, it has never happened again.

I should have reviewed this product ages ago, but I was always debating about showing a used patch (gross...I know), anyway the last picture above is a used patch with the pus sucked out.

I've tried acne dressing from other brands, but none of them works like this, and I'm going to stick with it.

I've got a few tips for you when using this product:

1. it only works on acne that has got a wound in it, it won't work on those acnes that are red and swollen without any visible infection (my trick is to use a needle and slightly scratch the surface and apply the dressing on top of it);
2. this won't work under makeup, don't believe the instruction. I usually use it overnight. 

Stieva-A 0.05%

Contents:25g
Price: HK$50

I've started using Stieva-A since last year's April, and I would like to write an update article. I'm not going to go into details about Tretinoin, and if you are curious what it is, please check out my previous article on Stieva-A cream 0.025% (lower concentration).

Since April last year, I've already gone thru 2 tubes of the 0.025% concentration, and already move up to the 0.05% concentration. You do not need a prescription for this concentration (at least not in Hong Kong or Macau).

Before using Stieva-A I knew that you have to go thru the stage of dry/flaky/red skin, I was expecting that, but I was told that this period would last for about 3 months and you'll start to see improvements afterwards. Well, my hellish days was not 3 months but 6 months, and I was so tempted to give up....

After the first 3 months my acne problems was mostly gone, but I was left with super dry and irritated skin, sometimes I even have to take a break from Tretinoin and let my skin stabilize before I start over again. After about 6 months my skin finally started to feel normal, and even then, I did not see any major improvements (I guess that I was expecting too much from this product). 

I've kept using it, and over time I did see that most of the acne marks were gone, and although I still get the occasional breakouts, it's nothing to worry about.  In terms of pore size and fine lines, I've been using this under my eyes (once a week), and I did notice improvements on the lines around my eyes, but beware if you want to use this under your eyes, because I was too greedy, and was using it under my eyes consecutively for 3 days, and it was so irritating that it left my under eye area all red. I did not notice any improvements on my pore size....

After using this for over a year, I've learn that this product works better under the following conditions:

1. only use this in the evening (contact with the sun will burn your skin);
2. after you wash your face, wait for 15 minutes before you apply it (this product reacts badly with water)
3. after application wait for 30 minutes before you apply your moisturizer (moisturizer will diminish the effect of the product, you need time for it to work)
4. don't use too much product, about a pea size should me enough ( you might think that there is not enough product to cover your whole face, but once absorbed it will permeate underneath your skin)

Dalacin T Topical Solution

Contents: 30ml
Price: HK$110



The following information has been extracted from drugs.com:

Category:
Antiacne agent (topical)
Antibacterial (topical)

Acne vulgaris(treatment)—Topical clindamycin is indicated in the treatment of acne vulgaris. It may be effective in grades II and III acne, which are characterized by inflammatory lesions such as papules and pustules. Topical antibacterials are not generally considered to be as effective as systemic antibacterials in the treatment of acne, especially more severe inflammatory acne. However, some studies have shown that clindamycin phosphate topical solution may be as effective as low-dose tetracycline for moderate cases of inflammatory acne.

Skin infections, bacterial, minor (treatment)—Topical clindamycin is used in the topical treatment of erythrasma caused by Corynebacterium minutissimum , rosacea, periorificial facial dermatitis, folliculitis, stasis, chronic lymphedema, and familial pemphigus.

Ulcer, dermal (treatment)—Clindamycin phosphate topical solution is used in the treatment of dermal ulcers.Not all species or strains of a particular organism may be susceptible to clindamycin.

Unaccepted

Topical clindamycin is not effective in the treatment of deep cystic lesions or noninflammatory lesions.

My opinion:

This acne solution only works for the mild and occasional breakouts, but if you have read my previous article about Ultima II Immediate Rescue Stick, I think they both works the same, but this is half the price.

Valesence Acne Lotion

Contents: 200ml or 6.8 fl.oz.
Price:HKD150

According to the Package:

Swiss brand Valesence, is the research and development personnel who is engaged in the research and development medicine cosmetology product profession by the multi-positions, develops after many year accumulation experience.

It is made from the latest active cell elements and extracted of dionezed waterd, arbutus, infrared rays liquid, bird's nest essence, lactic acid and collagen, etc.

 

My opinion:

I have monthly breakouts and was recommended to get this by my esthetician. Since it appears that none of my previous acne products seems to be working I got myself a bottle.

 

You are suppose to soak this in a cotton wool and leave in on top of your break out for 10 minutes. It does seems to speed up the drying process and I think that this is a very good substitute for the Mario Badescu Drying Lotion, since it was alot cheaper.

 

I've tried placing this around my cheeks where the pores are larger, and it does seems to shrink them.

 

I've try to locate this product in the net, but it appears that this is a salon product where you can't find it anywhere else....

Mario Badescu Drying Lotion

Contents: 1oz or 30ml
Price:HK$295

According to Mario Badescu webpage:

Benefits:
The Drying Lotion is a fast acting, effective acne spot treatment. Formulated with salicylic acid, calamine and other quick-drying ingredients, this product will shrink ugly whiteheads virtually overnight while you sleep. While other acne spot treatments can irritate and dry delicate or sensitive skin, this product is safe and effective for all skin types.

How to Use: Before bed, after cleansing, toning and moisturizing apply a dab of lotion directly on the whitehead using a cotton swab. Do not rub in. Let it dry and rinse off in the morning. DO NOT shake the bottle and apply only the pink sediment on the skin.

Beauty Tip: Great for back acne and breakouts on the chest. The Drying Lotion will also take the itch out of mosquito bites fast!

Ingredients: Isopropyl Alcohol,Deionized Water (Aqua), Calamine, Camphor, Colloidal Sulfur, Salicylic Acid,Glycerine, Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Talc

My opinion:

I've been using this for several years (this is actually my 4th bottle), especially on cystic acne. It won't clear your face overnight, but it does speed up the clearing process.

It has always worked for me, until recently it has stopped working, and I'm now searching for a substitute....

Stieva-A cream 0.025%

Contents:25g




The following information has been extracted from bodyandhealth.canada.com

How does Stieva-A work? What will it do for me?Tretinoin is used to treat certain types of acne. Tretinoin helps acne by exfoliating the skin's outer layer which helps to reduce the formation of blackheads, whiteheads and other acne lesions.

How should I use Stieva-A?
Tretinoin should be applied once daily at bedtime to lightly cover the areas being treated. The area of application should be thoroughly cleansed with a mild soap and water and patted dry with a soft towel. Wait about 20 minutes before applying the medication so your skin is completely dry. The treated area should be washed no more than twice daily. Apply a small amount (about the size of a pea) on your fingertip and spread it on the skin where acne lesions appear. Use only enough medication to cover the affected areas lightly.

Keep the medication away for the corners of the nose, mouth, eyes and mucous membranes. Avoid applying excess amounts as the medication may run into the eyes and other areas that should be avoided. Avoid areas of the skin where you have other problems such as eczema, severely inflamed skin or open skin lesions. After you wash your skin in the morning, it is recommended that you apply a moisturizer or a moisturizer with sunscreen that will not aggravate your acne.

After 3 to 6 weeks of treatment, you may notice new blemishes. Keep using this medication as you will notice a gradual improvement over 8 to 12 weeks.

Prolonged exposure to sunlight, sunlamps, wind, and cold should be avoided during treatment. If exposure to the sun is unavoidable, use a sunscreen with minimum SPF 15 and wear protective clothing.


What form(s) does Stieva-A come in?
Cream
Each g of cream contains tretinoin USP 0.01%, 0.025% or 0.05% in an emollient cream base. Nonmedicinal ingredients: butylated hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene, cetyl alcohol, edetate disodium, isopropyl palmitate, methyl paraben, prolyoxyl 40 stearate, propyl paraben, propylene glycol, purified water, stearic acid, stearyl alcohol and white petrolatum.

Forte Cream
Each g of cream contains tretinoin USP 0.1%. Nonmedicinal ingredients: butylated hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene, cetyl alcohol, edetate disodium, isopropyl palmitate, methyl paraben, polyoxyl 40 stearate, propyl paraben, propylene glycol, purified water USP, stearic acid, stearyl alcohol, titanium dioxide and white petrolatum.

Gel
Each g of gel contains tretinoin USP 0.01%, 0.025% or 0.05% in an alcohol base gel. Nonmedicinal ingredients: anhydrous alcohol, butylated hydroxytoluene and hydroxypropyl cellulose.

Solution
Each mL of solution contains tretinoin USP 0.025%. Nonmedicinal ingredients: anhydrous alcohol, butylated hydroxytoluene and hydroxypropyl cellulose.

Who should NOT take Stieva-A?
Tretinoin should not be used by anyone who is allergic to tretinoin or any of the ingredients of the medication.

What side effects are possible with Stieva-A?
Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent. The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.

The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

• burning, stinging, warmth, or tingling sensation of the skin lasting for a short time after applying
• chapping or slight peeling of the skin
• redness of the skin
• unusual dryness of the skin
• temporary darkening or lightening of the skin
• skin rash
• Although most of the side effects listed below don't happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not seek medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

• excessively red, swollen, blistered or crusted skin
• pain, burning sensation, tenderness, severe irritation, or itchy skin
• Some people may experience side effects other than those listed.

Application: Avoid excessive use of tretinoin. Avoid contact with the eyes, eyelids, angles of the nose, mouth, easily irritated areas, or other areas where treatment is not intended. Do not apply tretinoin to severely inflamed skin or to open lesions. Do not over-apply the cream. Doing so will not speed up treatment and will irritate your skin.

Skin care: Cosmetics may be used, but thoroughly cleanse the areas to be treated before applying the medication. Try to avoid products applied to the skin that have high concentrations of alcohol, spices or lime as they cause stinging and burning on treated skin. If possible, avoid simultaneous use of harsh abrasives and other skin treatments, including sun lamps.

Hair removal is permitted as usual (e.g., plucking, electrolysis, depilatories) but avoid these procedures at night before applying tretinoin as they may result in skin irritation.

Permanent wave solutions, waxing preparations, and medicated soaps and shampoos can sometimes even irritate skin that is not being treated with this medication. Use caution so that these products do not come into contact with skin treated with tretinoin.

Skin irritation: Some people may experience temporary skin irritation, especially in early weeks of treatment. Should excessive reactions occur, and the skin becomes extremely red, swollen, and crusted, the medication should be stopped and you should contact your doctor.

An apparent worsening may develop due to the medication's effect on existing deep lesions. This is a normal part of the treatment effect. Treatment should be continued.

Sunlight exposure: Exposure to sunlight, including ultraviolet sunlamps, may cause more irritation. Therefore, avoid or minimize this type of exposure during the use of tretinoin. If you cannot avoid exposure to sunlight, use sunscreen products (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing over treated areas.

My Opinion:

If you've been following my blog, you would know that I've been tortured by adult acnes for quite some time. Although it is not a full blown situation, it's still very irritating, my face has never been clear for over a year and apart from having a new spot every month, my whole face is full of acne marks and I can't even go out without my makeup on. (is actually starting to affect my confidence...)

The most irritating thing is that I have this acne on my chin for over 2 months that is neither growing nor shrinking (DAMN). I've started to use Stieva-A for about a week, and this damn acne is finally starting to shrink, I have my fingers cross and hope that it'll finally disappear.

Update: I've written an update on this product, so if you are interested please check out my post on Stieva-A cream 0.05%

Eldoquin Forte 4% Cream

Contents: 1/2oz or 14.18grams
Price: HKD$161



Description:
This medicine is a skin bleaching agent used to temporarily lighten the skin.
Eldoquin Forte 4% Cream Ingredients: HYDROQUINONE
Eldoquin Forte 4% Cream Directions:

• Use this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Apply a thin layer of medicine to the area that is being treated and rub it in thoroughly.
• Wash your hands when you are done.
• Protect your skin from the sun while using this medicine. Use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing.
• Do not use on irritated or injured skin.
• DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE WITH PEROXIDE. This may cause a dark staining of your skin. The staining can be removed by stopping the use of the peroxide and washing your skin with soap and water.

Possible Side Effects:

• Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include dryness of the skin around the nose and eyes. If this continues or is bothersome, check with your doctor.
• Stop using the medicine and contact your doctor if you experience redness, stinging, irritation, or a rash. C
• Check with your doctor immediately if you experience hives, itching, wheezing, or difficulty breathing or swallowing.

My Opinion:

I've used Eldoquin about 5 years ago when I had a slight burn on my chin and was prescribed by my dermatologist. I've used about half a tube of it and the discoloration was gone.

Recently I've seen all these reviews on beautyexchange.com.hk (please note that I did not get this product for free, I bought it with my own money), and thought of trying it out again for my acne marks.

I've been using it twice daily for a week and some of the acne marks appears to be lighter, but I think it will take a while for it to dissapear.

I'm aware that in certain countries you need a prescription for this product, but in HK you can get it in Watson's without a prescription.

There was some discussion about the safety of this product, and if you are concern I've extracted the following article from medicinenet.com:

FDA Proposes Hydroquinone Ban

On August 29, 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) proposed a ban on over-the-counter sales of cosmetic products containing hydroquinone, a skin-bleaching (lightening) ingredient. According to the FDA, approximately 65 companies sell over 200 different types of skin-lightening products containing hydroquinone in the U.S. Currently, products that contain up to 2 percent hydroquinone may be sold in the U.S. without a prescription, and prescription skin-lightening products may contain up to 4 percent hydroquinone. Examples of prescription products containing hydroquinone are Lustra, Tri-Luma, and EpiQuin Micro.

Hydroquinone products are popular for their skin-lightening properties in Asian and African cosmetics markets. In the U.S., they also are marketed for reducing age spots and blemishes.

The reason cited for the proposed ban is that studies in rodents show "some evidence" that hydroquinone may act as a carcinogen or cancer-causing chemical, although its cancer-causing properties have yet to be proved in humans. Hydroquinone also has been linked with the medical condition known as ochronosis in which the skin becomes dark and thick. Dome-shaped yellowish spots and grayish-brown spots also are observed in ochronosis among black women and men in South Africa, Britain, and the U.S. Ochronosis has been observed in conjunction with hydroquinone use even in persons who have used hydroquinone-containing cosmetics for a short time. Some studies also report abnormal function of the adrenal glands and high levels of mercury in people who have used hydroquinone-containing cosmetics. For these reasons, hydroquinone has already been banned in Japan, the European Union, and Australia.

Any skin-lightening products containing hydroquinone would be considered new drugs, according to the proposed FDA regulations. The products would require FDA approval before being sold to the public and would only be available with a doctor's prescription.

Following the proposed ban, a four-month comment period is in effect regarding the proposed changes in regulations during which time physicians, skin care companies, and consumers may voice their opinions and concerns about the proposed ban. It is not yet known if and when the proposed ban would take effect.

Reference: Federal Register: August 29, 2006 (Volume 71, Number 167)Proposed Rules, Page 51146-51155.

Ultima II Immediate Rescue Stick

Ultima II Interactives
Help Skin Help Itself
Immediate Rescue Stick
Price: HK$185.40
Contents: 15ml

According to the package:
Instantly dries, purifies and soothes the skin. Helps to reduce the appearance of local skin imperfections.

To use: Apply locally. Reapply during the day if necessary.

Anti-Greasy Skin Complex: 1.5% - Alcohol Desnaturalizado: 70%

Ingredients (contains): Alcohol Denat, Aqua (Water), Propylene Glycol, Hydroxypropylcellulose, PenoxYethanol, 10-Hydroxydecanoic Acid, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Parfum (Fragrance), Butylene Glycol, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Methylparaben, Hexamidine Diisethionate, Salicylic Acid, Triclosan, Hamamelis Virginiana (Wtich Hazel Extract), Butylparaben, Ethylparaben, Hexyl Cinnamal, Benzyl Alcohol, Benzyl Benzoate, Isobutylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Limonene, Benzyl Salicylate, Linalool, Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde, Hydroxycitronellal, Citronellol, Geraniol, BEnzyl Cinnameate, AlphaMethyl Ionone, Eugenol, CI 42090 (FD&C Blue No.1), CI 17200 (D&C Red No.33)

My Opinion:

I've been using this for 3 weeks and I have to admit that this stuff does works, but not in a speedy way, you have to use it consistently for 2-3 weeks before you'll see any effect.

Before this, I was using Dalacin T Topical Solution that I've got in a chemist, and if i compare them, Dalacin is really dry while Ultima II does not dry out my skin at all.

The saleslady also told me to use it in the oilier areas around my face even without break out, it'll prevent my face from breaking out. So far I didn't see any new break outs yet, but as I've mentioned before, I can't tolerate Ultima II salesman, therefore even if I like this product I'll have to get someone else to repurchase it for me.

My Breakouts Culprit

Kose – Softymo Collagen Cleansing Cream

I can’t believe that it took me 3 whole weeks to figure out that this was the culprit for my breakouts…..

This is one of those makeup remover and cleanser 2 in 1 produdct (it is color and fragrance free, and it has collagen in it), and most importantly I always go over it with a foam cleanser. It has never occurred to me that a cleanser might actually cause breakouts, I’ve tried countless cleansers and never once did I break out because of it…..

I’ve got a new makeup remover today, Coreana Perfect Clean Cleansing Lotion, it says that it cleanses make up and impurities delicately with Multi Fruit Cocktail, which is a bunch of fruit extracts like pomegranate, kiwi, apple, lemon and grapes…..

I have never been choosy with cleansers, but I’ve paid nearly USD$30 for it, so it better work!